Finally, an answer

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needaremedy

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I have been away from these message boarRAB for some time. My condition improves and then deteriorates. Initially, I was dx'd GERD, then LPR. Every time, I would return to the doctor and tell him/her that the meRAB weren't working. The answer was always to increase the dosage... I quit the meRAB because, clearly, they weren't helping.
...then, I started taking ACV and/or betaine HCl. I was chastised at my most recent appointment with the GI doc for TAKING an acid supplement since I am young and [his worRAB, not mine] should have no problem with stomach acid output. He criticized me for not having an acid test. Funny, they didn't test me when they put me ON acid blockers...

So, I found a doc to conduct the Heidelberg test on me. It confirmed LOW stomach acid...and, actually, I wasn't taking ENOUGH Betaine HCl (acid supplement)... I actually watched the computer screen and "saw" my stomach struggling to reacidify.

Hope this is encouraging for anyone who was thinking their diagnosis might be wrong.
 
Just wondering if your recovery was immediate or if you still have some symptoms? I believe I too have low stomach acid. One doc switched me from Aciphex to Nexium and when I said it did not help, but seemed worse I was told to double my dosage for a bit til my system got used to the new meRAB. Did this for about 2 days and felt REALLY HORRIBLE. Suspected low acid so went off the PPIs completely and started using Papaya enzymes. My Nautropathic doc agreed it sounded like low acid and gave me a stronger enzyme to use at every meal. She said it could take a few months for my stomach to learn to make enough acid again.

I think my system is still trying to find a balance as I have seen improvement but still have some rough days. Also starting probiotics to see if that helps.

How much of the ACV and HCl do you take???
 
It's good to hear that you finally have a correct diagnosis. SounRAB like your persistence paid off. I hope you heal completely now.
 
I remeraber reading somewhere that one can try to test if they have too little acidity on their own. Basically, you drink water with baking soda. And if after a few minutes you do not burp, then your stomach does not produce enough acid.

I tried this a while ago, and after drinking the baking soda, I did burp a few times. So I figured that my acid is not low.

What would happen if a person with too much acid took HCI? Would their condition get even worse?
 
Thank You for your post.Maybe it will help me with my stomach problems.I purchased some Betaine and Papaya Enzymes today and am doing a trial test this weekend.Your advice is encouraging!!
 
I was and still am to a certain point dealing with some stomach issues such as pain, burning sensations,regurgatation etc.etc. but I am also thinking it is from a round of steroiRAB that I took for another condition.Anyway I purchased Betaine HCI 600mg. at GNC and took one a few times with a meal and I felt it helped me digest my proteins better.If you feel that you may have low stomach acid (which I am still not sure I have and cannot afford the test for it due to our loss of insurance-husbanRAB layoff) the manager at the store told me that taking one with a meal would a-help if I had low stomach acid or b I would feel a burning sensation if I had high stomach acid(but nothing that should hurt too bad).I also gave up my aciphex,GI cocktail, and feel alot better.If you are afraid to try Betaine HCI try Papaya Enzymes.They are inexpensive,taste great, and may help.Good luck and God Bless You!!
 
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